We’d like to think of Greg Laswell’s albums as “delectable mood music” — the kind of records you throw on when you want to zone out the rest of the world, or want a soundtrack for your thoughts as you lie outside with a cup of coffee and the Sunday paper. The singer-songwriter has built up a reputation as a pure and honest storyteller, whose songs are as melodic as they are mournful. But when we caught up with Laswell a few weeks ago, he was uncharacteristically upbeat and jovial — a mood that he says is actually more representative of who he is now. The occasional sorrowful song will still be around, but as he prepares to launch a summer tour behind his new album, “Take a Bow,” Laswell says he’s ready to showcase a different side of himself. He talked to Corduroy about his new album, his tour bus essentials, and why his personality is not serious as people think.
First things first. Let’s chat about the new album. It’s not as — dare I say — sad as the last two albums.
The first two records stuck pretty close to pain as the subject matter. This one still deals with pain, but in a different way… It is more tongue-in-cheek at times. I feel like I’m writing about it from a much more objective viewpoint than before. There are also a few straight-up happy songs and one where I’m a bit pissed off.
Where did the title “Take a Bow” come from?
“Take a Bow” is for anyone who has come through a really hard time and is still standing. I couldn’t name it, “Well done” or “‘Atta Boy,” so I went with the title track “Take a Bow.” The line is huge. I’ve never written a fictional song for myself…or at least not one that I have released.
Most artists go out and immerse themselves in the world to seek inspiration for their songs, but you chose to hole yourself up in a cabin in Arizona. What was the reasoning behind that?
I decided to do it that way because I like the word “hole.” Also, I had done two records and an EP amidst the hum of everyday life and I really liked the idea of getting out of town for this next one. Strangely enough, it took me a LOT longer to finish this way…
Your songs are weighty but you display a big sense of humor in your videos and interviews. So who is the real Greg Laswell? Which side of the coin do you belong to?
Well, both you silly goose. My songs are snap shots. It just turns out that my favorite things to take musical snapshots of are sad. It would not be good if I was always in that place though. Plus I don’t trust people who are always happy or always sad. That proves to me that they are lying. I’m melancholy for sure, but I don’t take myself all that seriously. If my stage banter matched the mood of most of my songs, it would be a pretty depressing show for people to go to.
So let’s talk about your big summer tour. Your songs are deeply personal and deal with some serious subjects lyrically-speaking. It must be hard to get into that “mood” and deliver these songs on tour night after night…
I know, right? I am usually in a good mood at shows and then I have to sing songs like “High and Low” and now a new one called “Goodbye.” These songs have become about where I used to be and not where I am, but thinking about a stranger in the audience who maybe is there at the show because they relate to what I have been through and perhaps is still in the thick of it… well, that is enough for me to pull off an emotional performance.
What are your tour bus essentials?
I usually stock up on stand-up comedian albums. They help drives go faster than music I find. Packs of new socks is another. At truck stops I buy chips, a water, a soda and a six-pack of socks.
Your last album was a disc of covers. Is there a current song on that radio that you’d love to cover?
Um, no. I’m not a fan of covering current songs… I think a little time should pass by.
What if you could pick someone to cover one of YOUR songs? Who would it be?
I’d like to hear what Tori Amos would do with one of my songs.
Okay, enough serious stuff. I’ve been told you have a lot of topics you want to discuss with me. Here’s your chance to rant and rave.
I would like to rave about three very important things:
1. My friend Brian Wright is opening a few shows for me on tour. His album, “House on Fire” is my favorite record of this year. I don’t need to hear what else comes out this year. It will still be my pick. He’s also playing in my band.
2. Mexican food. I love it more than you love your newborn baby. (Editor’s note: This is an analogy. Tim does not have a baby… that he knows of)
3. My dog, Shep Proudfoot. He is cuter and better behaved than your son or daughter. (Editor’s note: See above)
Anything to rant about?
I would like to keep my ranting in Sing-Song Land.
Last question before you go: what’s the secret to writing a good song?
For me, throwing away more than I keep.
- TC
(photos by Lauren Dukoff)
